Department:                  Mary Baker Eddy Library

SUMMARY

The Transcription Verifier/Encoder/Researcher I focuses on transcribing documents, verifying transcriptions and encoding them into TEI-XML, and researching and writing for The Mary Baker Eddy Papers, in its work of annotating and digitally publishing correspondence, sermons, and other documents related to Mary Baker Eddy. The work for this position can be performed remotely.

The Mary Baker Eddy Papers is a major effort to annotate and digitally publish correspondence, sermons, and other documents related to Eddy.

The Mary Baker Eddy Library (MBEL) is a trusted and authoritative resource on Mary Baker Eddy and the history of the Christian Science movement, providing public access to original materials and educational experiences about Eddy, the ideas she advanced, her writings, the institutions she founded, and their healing mission.

ESSENTIAL ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Verifies extant transcriptions, makes corrections to downloaded document files, and uploads them into a file sharing application
• Transcribes incoming correspondence and other documents into appropriate document files and uploads the documents into a file sharing application
• Encodes transcriptions into TEI-XML
• Participates in weekly Papers team meetings
• Assists with updating and refining verifying and transcription policies
• Contributes to the Papers monthly publication “From the Papers” as needed
• Represents the Papers as a guest on podcasts as needed
• Represents the Papers at professional conferences as needed
• Stays current with professional best practices through active engagement with the field

Performs other duties as assigned.

STAFF MANAGEMENT AND JOB CONTACTS

Reporting Relationships

Supervisor:       Editor, Mary Baker Eddy Papers

Regular Contacts

As part of the Papers team, the Transcription Verifier/Encoder/Researcher I works closely with various MBEL activities: Special Collections, Organizational Archives, Research, and Curatorial.

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

Education/Experience

• Master’s degree in library science, history, or other advanced degree in a related discipline required
• Two to five years of professional experience required
• Experience conducting in-depth historical research in primary and secondary materials; both print and online preferred
• Experience in a library or archival environment preferred
• Successful contribution to one or more digital humanities projects preferred

Knowledge/Skills

• The ideal candidate has a working knowledge of Mary Baker Eddy, her ideas and legacy, and the history of The First Church of Christ, Scientist, and is familiar with the collections maintained or accessed by the Library, as well as a general knowledge of nineteenth-century American religious or women’s history.
• Ability to read cursive handwriting
• Ability to stay on task and meet deadlines
• Ability to work remotely and at the same time be an effective, self-motivated team player
• Excellent manuscript transcription skills
• Excellent communication skills, including active listening, effective collaborating, and a willingness to ask questions
• Ability to collaborate with colleagues to implement best practices

Technical Skills

• Experience with TEI-XML and Oxygen Editor
• Experience with computer applications for content management (Box, Re:discovery/Proficio, Google Drive, M-Files); document editing (Word, Google); and teleconferencing applications (Zoom).

Work Environment Requirements

Must be able to look comfortably at a computer screen for long periods at a time.

Christian Science information

The ideal Transcription Verifier/Encoder/Researcher I values Mary Baker Eddy’s life and work, and recognizes the Library’s role in furthering the mission of her church. Members of The Mother Church, as well as non-members, may apply and serve in this position.

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification document form upon hire.